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Last Update: Friday 12th November 2004
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FEATURES   By SUNITA RAPPAI


Above, from left, artists Helena Lezard, Babette Prior, Vanessa Whinney, Vivian Manthel-French and Doreen Wainwright. Below, paintings from the annual exhibition
Art unites ex-broadway babe, pathologist and former head
THEY are a diverse group of people – from an ex-Broadway dancer to a pathologist and a former headteacher.
But they have one thing in common – a love of, and talent for, painting.
Highgate Watercolour Group is staging its 24th exhibition at Lauderdale House in Highgate. A section this year covers ‘Aspects of North London’.
Part of Highgate Society, the group of about 30 members ranging in age from “an early 40something to a few 80somethings” meets weekly at the society’s headquarters in South Grove.
Their aim, according to chairwoman Vanessa Whinney, is to “paint together in a friendly atmosphere and improve standards – so work exhibited reflects the high quality now expected of us”.
Nearly all members are experienced watercolourists.
“We like to think we have a certain standard,” said Ms Whinney. “Because places are limited, we can’t accept beginners who want teaching.
“We ask them to join a group and welcome them when they become more confident.”
She added: “Painting can be quite a solitary activity so this gives us all an opportunity to socialise and learn from each other.”
Ex-Broadway singer and dancer Helena Lezard, one of the members exhibiting, said: “When I couldn’t be the ingénue any more, I thought it was time to start painting. It allows me to be creative again.”
Members will give free demonstrations of their skills on Sunday afternoon.

• The exhibition is at Lauderdale House in Waterlow Park, Highgate Hill, until Sunday. For details, call 020 8348 8716.